Washable air filters are a great option for people looking to save money on their home air filtration system. However, this type of filter is only capable of removing large particles from the air in your home. With a maximum MERV rating of 4, it is not able to filter out dander or pet smoke. If you or your family members suffer from allergies or asthma, a washable air filter may not be the best choice for your home.
Disposable filters are more effective at trapping smaller particles, while washable ones are only good at protecting against large particles such as dust. They don't filter pet dander, bacteria, viruses, or smoke, especially when they're not changed often enough. Microparticulate air filters are known to rank higher than 14 in their MERV ratings. The main difference between HVAC electrostatic filters and disposable air filters is that the former are washable and reusable.
HEPA filters are commonly used in medical clinics, hospitals and laboratories, where extremely pure air is especially important. Ultimately, the decision to switch to a reusable filter depends on what you need for air quality. While both types of filters can reliably protect your heating or cooling system, disposable filters are often known for their superior performance. Washable air filters are usually made of woven polypropylene media and are electrostatically charged to capture more particles.
To better understand what type of HVAC air filter is best for your home, you'll need to understand the different types of air filter technology, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each type. In addition, while reusable filters are good at protecting your home from large particles, such as dust, they may not be as effective at filtering bacteria, viruses, smoke and pet dander. Disposable filters can provide safer, cleaner air. In general, fiberglass disposable HVAC filters are the most common and affordable type of oven filter, but they must be replaced regularly to maintain HVAC efficiency and air quality. On the other hand, some air conditioning professionals argue that air filter quality is largely a myth.
HVAC UV air filters do not use fiberglass, cotton, plastic, or any other type of fiber to filter particles from the air.
